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Release Number: 10-246

For Immediate Release:

Public Information Office of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

August 25, 2010

Contact Person:

Debbie Carter : dcarter@hcso.tampa.fl.us

813-247-8059

Suspect Arrested Via Tip From Crime Stoppers

Crime Stoppers receives tip that suspect indicated a mass shooting.

Monday

August 23, 2010

Time: 12:00 AM

Leto High School

Tampa, FL

Suspect:

Austin James Cook, DOB 9-16-92
7220 Creekwood Court
Tampa

Charges:

Solicitation to Commit Murder
Threat to Discharge Destructive Device
During July, 2010 detectives received an anonymous complaint via Crime Stoppers indicating a mass shooting was planned to occur at Leto High School on a specific date and at a specific time. Detectives identified and interviewed witnesses, obtaining information that substantiated the original complaint. Detectives seized a firearm and a computer from the suspect’s residence. The suspect was arrested at his residence without incident on August 23, 2010, prior to the commencement of school.